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Google's Cyber Scam

If you're one of the millions of Americans shopping online today on "Cyber Monday," be careful. You can't trust Google Shopping to show you the best price.

A Consumer Watchdog study found that, more often than not, the item featured in the Google Shopping result is not the lowest price. For 8 out of 14 items we searched for, the price was higher on Google Shopping than the same item was on a competing comparison shopping engine like Nextag, Shopzilla or Pricegrabber. Read the study here.

Google has become most people's gateway to the Internet. When you type in a product, say "electric drill," in Google's search box, Google responds with links to relevant websites, articles and clearly labeled ads. It also offers suggestions from its Google Shopping service, with photographs of specific camera models.

Most people likely expect these to be Google's suggestions for best prices. However, there is nothing to indicate these are in fact ads and that the seller pays Google and bids to be featured in Google Shopping. The electric drill we searched for cost 49% more on Google Shopping than on other sites.

There are great deals to be found online, but Google Shopping doesn't usually feature those deals. The Internet giant is concerned first about maximizing its profit from retailers, not about saving you money. It all makes sense when you understand that you aren't Google's customer. You are Google's product, being sold to the highest bidder.

That's why I'm meeting with the Federal Trade Commission in Washington to make sure Google is more forthcoming with information regarding its corporate relationships and product sponsorships.